GEORGE ALLEN ATHERTON

Dec 7, 1920 – Aug 6, 2013

POSTEDAugust 9, 2013 9:54 p.m.

George “Allen” Atherton, 92, was born in Stockton to George and Arline Atherton. He died Tuesday in Modesto.Allen moved with his family to Turlock in 1928, and after graduating from Turlock High in 1938 he worked in the family vending and amusement machine business for his step-father, D. D. Patton. He joined the U.S. Army during WWII and after his discharge returned to the family business in Turlock, which included brothers Bud Patton and Les Atherton. He later enrolled at Stanford University where he earned his accounting degree to practice as a CPA in Modesto. He furthered his education at Humphrey’s College School of Law where he graduated in 1958 and received his JD “Juris Doctorate” to become a tax attorney.Allen had varied interests. He was a golfer and fly fisherman, which included tying his own flies. He was a pilot and cattleman, as well as an avid reader, bridge player and genealogist. He had a passion for crossword puzzles, and he could accurately be described as an information junkie. He was a member of the Modesto Rotary Club and a past president and member of Del Rio Golf & Country Club.Allen is survived by children Barbara Salamone, George Atherton, Jr., and Helen Atherton, and grandchildren Leslie Cain, Joshua Ellis, Zachary Ellis, Tiffany DuCharme, Kimberly Padilla, Shawna Teague and Paul King. He also leaves his brother, John S. Patton, his sister Sharon Gray, 26 grandchildren, and special lady friends. He was preceded in death by wives Kay Atherton and Marie Atherton, and grandson Ernie Ellis. A memorial service will be held at Turlock Funeral Home on Tuesday, Aug. 13, at 1:00 p.m. Donations may be made to the American Heart Assn. or the charity of the donor’s choice. Please leave your condolences at www.turlockmemorialpark.com